Beyond is built, almost entirely, on the strength of remarkable people who give passionately to their roles, work tirelessly, and have the guest experience at the core of their focus daily, caring for the sustainability of our communities and environment.
Every single '&Beyonder' makes a significant difference to our success and our contribution to the world, regardless of their role or function.
For this reason, we choose '&Beyonders' very carefully – they are the strength and the future of this company.
KEY OUTPUTS:
- Clients, Guests and Suppliers: Actively work at improving information flow to all key Suppliers via the MOS Assist consultants in advising clients on all product-related queries.
- Negotiate preferential rates with suppliers and specialized terms for group bookings.
- Implement secondary buying with the groups team to increase margin.
- Oversee and conduct on-site inspections with clients and assist in coordinating traveling groups on location.
- Offer proactive support to the Groups & Incentives team, assisting with overall operations of traveling files.
- Ensure compliance with country travel restrictions when assisting with administration, planning, and execution of traveling groups.
- Provide feedback and recommendations to improve guest experiences and customer service.
- Sourcing new products and continuously developing compelling new group products, experiences, and packages.
- Stay updated on products in all regions for groups and research and curate group gifting options tailored to destinations.
- Maintain strong relationships with third-party partners and ensure supplier adherence to service standards.
- Travel to stay in touch with products and regions.
People:
- Work closely with the Reservations Manager to ensure all files are profitable and margins align with guidelines.
- Review files to ensure quality control and seamless itinerary operations.
- Collaborate with the Product Manager in sourcing accommodation and activities.
- Assist with rate negotiations for groups to improve rates, margins, and competitiveness.
- Negotiate special offers and value adds for groups.
- Ensure the best rates relative to the business volume provided.
- Minimize risks when contracting with third parties and agents.
- Keep updated supplier information and negotiate third-party associations related to &Beyond lodges.
Finance:
- Create buy opportunities to increase margins.
- Ensure profitability of files and adherence to margin guidelines.
- Collaborate on month-end processes and procedures.
KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:
- Deep knowledge of the tourism industry, including channels, trends, destination management, and customer expectations.
- Geographical, logistical, and product knowledge of South, Southern, and East Africa.
- Management or supervisory experience.
- Extensive sales experience in groups and incentives markets.
QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
- At least 7 years of experience in group operations within inbound tourism / hospitality.
- Hands-on experience managing groups, including traveling with them.
SKILLS REQUIRED:
- Understanding of travel terms, product knowledge, and industry channels.
- Proficiency in Tourplan or similar reservation systems.
- MS Office skills, especially Excel.
- CRM and related systems experience.
- Strong organization, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
- Knowledge of e-commerce platforms and social media.
- Data analysis and decision-making skills.
PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES:
- Passion for service excellence.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Time management and organizational skills.
- Teamwork, conflict resolution, and attention to detail.
- Ability to work under pressure and handle routine tasks with patience and perseverance.